International exchange students recently arrived at Shanghai Jiao Tong University take part in an orientation event on Feb 17. More than 200 students attended the event. [Photo provided to study-shanghai.org]

The International Student Center and the International Communication Association (ICA) of Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU) jointly held an orientation day for new international exchange students on Feb 17.

Some 200 students attended the event, featuring an introduction to the university and Chinese culture, and some interactive and experience-sharing activities.

The orientation introduced the new students to SJTU's facilities, learning environment, summer programs and some basic information on the International Student Center and ICA. Teachers also offered advice about living and studying at SJTU, as well as patiently answering the students' questions.

International students from SJTU take part in an ice-breaking activity during an orientation held at the school on Feb 17. [Photo provided to study-shanghai.org]

Representatives from different student organizations also briefed the freshmen about a range of colorful campus activities, such as rowing and kayaking, practicing traditional Chinese paintings and calligraphy, and playing folk instruments.

The freshmen showed great interest in the Buddy Program, a one-to-one tutoring scheme pairing new exchange students with Chinese partners, which is designed to allow both to help each other with studies and living in Shanghai.

The students also had fun trying some ice-breaking activities, such as squeezing balloons and guessing word riddles.

As a school tradition, SJTU organizes an orientation event every year to welcome the new international students. More than 200 exchange students have already finished their registration at SJTU, including 135 undergraduates and 68 postgraduates, with most coming from North America, Europe, and Southeast Asia.

Students and teachers pose for a group photo at the orientation event, held at SJTU on Feb 17. [Photo provided to study-shanghai.org]